Together we nurture the spiritual vitality of Friends

Detroit Friends Meeting

Introducing the Detroit Friends Meeting

The Detroit Friends Meeting (DFM) is a part of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). Quaker practice is steeped in Judeo-Christian thought, but the expression of those beliefs are different from many mainline or orthodox traditions.

The DFM encourages the spiritual searching of individual members. The Bible is a wonderful source of inspirational and religious thought, but Friends rely heavily on direct experience of God through Silent Worship. Friends don't teach that human nature is inherently sinful. The heart of Quaker practice is the belief in an Inner Light, which is part of God's spirit that dwells in everyone.

Practice at the DFM is rooted in traditional testimonies that have developed over years of practice and revelation. Quakers practice Simplicity which is a belief in moderation of possessions to maintain our focus of living in the moment and not becoming attached to worldly things. There is a strong commitment to nonviolence (Peace) and reconciliation that addresses the misuse and abuse of power. Friends strive to demonstrate Integrity which is genuineness in speech and conduct and leaves no room for deceit or artificiality. Community is a unifying bond that is created by shared worship. We value the ideas and gifts that each member brings to the meeting. Friends at the DFM believe in Equality in that all persons have inherent worth, independent of their gender, race, age, nationality, religion, and sexual orientation.

The DFM views religion as a personal encounter with God, rather than ritual and ceremony. For this reason, the meeting is Unprogrammed. The meeting does not have a pastor who acts with religious authority, but the meeting encourages members to explore their own beliefs and leanings. This includes the independent thoughts of children as well. All thoughts and ideas are welcome and are tolerated without judgment.

To get an understanding of what to expect in Quaker worship, click on this link and view the Quaker video.

What to Expect at Meeting

We welcome you – whether this is your first time at a Quaker Meeting or your first visit to the Detroit Friends Meeting. We meet each Sunday at 10:30 for an hour of silent worship, during which any person who feels moved to speak may do so. Note that among Friends this invitation to speak, if moved by the Spirit, is understood to extend to all, Quakers and non-Quakers, for we believe the spark of divinity is found in all people. If there are children present they will leave the room after 20 minutes to attend the children’s program (First Day School) with the adults who are teaching the lesson. They will rejoin us at the end of the hour and tell us about their lesson.

Quakers believe in the Inner Light and we sometimes use other phrases like “that of God in every person” or “Christ within.” These are all ways of saying that we believe there is a Divine Spirit present in the world and in everyone, even when we are not aware of it. In our worship we sit together in silence and are open to a direct experience of that Inner Light. If someone speaks, we try to simply listen with open minds and hearts to the message. We let there be some silence before the next person speaks so the message may have time to sink in. Some hours of worship are completely silent and other times there may be several speakers. Both kinds of meetings can be very valuable. Although our meeting space may not look like places of traditional worship, this reflects the Quaker commitment to simplicity and understanding that all places in creation are sacred.

We understand that for newcomers a complete hour of silence may be uncomfortable. If it feels like too much for you, we suggest you stand up quietly and leave the room. You can return quietly if you choose or wait until the meeting ends.

Prior to the rise of meeting someone will invite those present to speak about any joys or sorrows they may want to share. We conclude the Meeting for Worship by shaking hands, often with the greeting of hello or “good morning, Friend.” There will usually be announcements and a brief presentation by the children of their experience in First Day Schoolfollowed by introductions before time for tea, coffee and snacks …and a lot of talking. Silent worship seems to be a great social lubricant! Please stay and join us if you wish. This is a time for getting to know one another and for asking any questions you may have. If you do have questions, we also have pamphlets and other information available.

Please sign our Guest Book on a table or countertop in the Meeting room. We like to know who has visited the Meeting, but will not use that information to contact you unless you request it.

An invitation from Birmingham Monthly Meeting:

We will be serving lunch to needy folks at the Genesis Church in Royal Oak on Saturday, January 12, 2019, and Saturday, April 27, 2019. We need to arrive at 10:30 am to prepare and serve the meals. Cleaning the kitchen and dining area is usually done by 1:30 pm. Come for the entire time, or for any part of the event that fits your schedule. Children, who are old enough to help, are encouraged to come. Home baked chocolate chip cookies are served for dessert, so please consider baking a dozen cookies as a contribution if you have the time.

Meeting Times

Sunday Schedule

NOTE: Meeting for Worship takes place at our temporary home: Cass Community Social Services Activity Center at 3745 Cass Avenue

Meeting for Worship 10:30 to 11:30 am

First Day School 10:45 to 11:30 am (first 15 minutes in worship with adults)